Neurofeedback is direct training of brain activity by which the brain learns to function more efficiently. The brain is observed from moment to moment through an EEG. The information is shown back to a person through a video game that reflects the brain-wave activity. The brain is rewarded by changing its own activity to more appropriate patterns by playing the video game. This is a gradual learning process. Neurofeedback is also called EEG biofeedback, because it is based on electrical brain activity, the electroencephalogram, or EEG. Neurofeedback is training in self-regulation. Self-regulation training allows the system (the central nervous system) to function better.

What is Neurofeedback good for?

Neurofeedback addresses many problems of brain disregulation. These happen to be numerous. The most common application of EEG biofeedback is currently in the areas of attention, learning, and behavior problems of children. However, other common applications include: the Anxiety-Depression Spectrum, OCD, Attention Deficits, Autism Spectrum Disorders; Behavior Disorders, Sleep Disorders, Headaches, Migraines, PMS, and Emotional Disturbances.

How is this done?

Electrodes are placed on the scalp to listen in on brainwave activity. The computer extracts certain key information about brainwave frequencies. The information of this activity is shown back to the person, who attempts to change the activity level. Some frequencies we wish to promote. Others we wish to diminish. This information is presented back to the person in the form of a video game. The person is effectively playing the video game with his or her brain. Eventually the brainwave activity is "shaped" toward more desirable, more regulated performance. The frequencies we target, and the specific locations on the scalp where we listen in on the brain, are specific to the conditions we are trying to address, and specific to the individual.

What conditions can be helped?

Anxiety , Depression, ADHD, Autism, Pain, Migraine, Test Anxiety as well as Peak Performance can all be helped by Neurofeedback. Neurofeedback can also be used to maintain good brain function as people get older. The good news is that almost any brain, regardless of its level of function, can be trained to function better.

How do you know how to train a particular brain?

Certain training protocols have been developed that are helpful with certain classes of problems such as attention, anxiety and depression, seizures and migraines, as well as cognitive function. There are a number of assessment tools which are used to help decide which areas of the brain to work on.

How long does Neurofeedback take?

The EEG training typically requires 20-40 sessions for attention, learning, and behavior problems, in order for consolidation of learning to take place. Clients are generally seen two times a week for up to 30 minutes each session.

What is the history of Neurofeedback?

Neurofeedback developed from operant conditioning of cats' EEG. Barry Sterman of UCLA discovered that when cats were exposed to toxic chemicals that usually induce epileptic seizures, those who had been trained in the middle to high frequency range (12-20 Hz) from a previous unrelated experiment had greater latency to seizure onset, and a higher threshold for seizure onset, than untrained cats. These results were replicated in monkeys and humans. The results with humans were subsequently replicated in some twelve research centers, comprising some twenty studies. After several years of treating patients with intractable seizures with SMR biofeedback, it was noted that the hyperactive children not only had decreased seizure activity, but their behavior improved as well.

PAYMENTS & INSURANCE REIMBURSEMENT

San Diego Neurofeedback, participates on some insurance panels , however we may be out of network with other insurance carriers. If we are out of network , we will work with you and your insurance company . A few medical and psychological plans do reimburse for biofeedback for various conditions, while others require copayments . We cannot guarantee reimbursement and you are responsible for the fees. We will write you a super bill which you can submit to your insurance company for services paid to San Diego Neurofeedback. We also offer packages for purchase of sessions of 10 and over. Typical fees are 100 per session , or 1800.00 for twenty sessions. The 350 dollar evaluation is waived with the purchase of 20 sessions. Sliding scales are available for those in financial need.

To determine if your insurance covers EEG biofeedback (Neurofeedback) it will be necessary for you to call your provider directly. The code for the procedure is 90901 . Please find out how many sessions they would cover and what your copay would be.